The Maine Masonic College FAQ
Because of the uniqueness of the Maine Masonic College, we often hear the same questions. We've tried to gather them here for you. We'll add to this list as necessary.
If you're in Maine, start here.
Inquiries 'from away', start here.
Those in Maine will hopefully find answers here.
Q: Do I need to apply to take part in Maine Masonic College programs?
Absolutely NOT! While we use the name 'College' and operate with many of the conceptual ideas of a higher learning program, all of our programs (except those specifically noted) require nothing more than an inquisitive mind and a willingness to learn. Whether you've got three or four advanced degrees or never made it through high school, you'll benefit from our programs. What's more, you'll find other attendees just like yourself there so you won't ever be embarrassed.
Q: I've decided to attend a course that's being held tomorrow. Can I just show up?
A: Generally, yes - although we ask that you consider the course description carefully to check for prerequisites. Also, PLEASE fill out an online registration form (found on the course description page): that will help as well.
Each course has different requirements. Some courses, for example, have a reading requirement involving material that has been mailed to registrants. As a result, walk-ins wouldn't be prepared for such a course and this could be disruptive to the class. You as a student will not benefit as much as you might have.
If food is involved, we try to accommodate but it could be that we run short. If you haven't registered in advance, please be understanding.
Seating can also be problematic if too many show up. Those who register first will have priority although there we have always been able to deal with walk-ins to date.
We know that sometimes plans change at the last moment. If you can, just let us know what's up. It makes life a whole lot easier!
Note: Our Extension Courses are formatted in an entirely different way and in most cases no registration is required thus everyone is a 'drop-in'! <smile>
Q: What if I need to cancel?
A: Again, just let us know. An e-mail to the Registrar will do the trick and help keep us on track.
Several days before a course, we make a commitment to the facility for the amount of food they'll provide so a refund of meal costs may not always be possible though we do make every effort to ensure that you don't lose out. Most of the time, a full refund is issued.
NOTE: Cancellations with FULL refunds guaranteed are accepted up to 7 days before the class so register early and cancel if you need to.
Q: Why is there a registration fee?
A: While we try to provide many free programs during the year, some have expenses not borne through other means. If a particular financial problem precludes your attendance, please contact the Registrar in confidence.
Q: How long does it take to get a diploma?
A: The Maine Masonic College offers 'MMCEU's - Maine Masonic College Education Units - for those who've attended our courses. We have developed a recognition program based on their accumulation. You can read more about that here.
Q: I'm a teacher. Can I use MMCEUs as part of my continuing professional education requirement?
A: Each continuing education program has its own requirements. Check your own program's requirements for applicability. We can provide certification of attendance if necessary.
Q: I live in Berwick, Maine. When will you offer MMC courses in my area?
A: We try to plan our courses so as to be accessible to all Masons in Maine and their communities. If you and others decide that you'd like to have a particular course given in your own city/town, please contact us with full particulars. Most of our instructors will provide their courses in a given location provided there is a guarantee of an agreed-upon attendance figure. (This means that MMC would be guaranteed a specified number of registrations at an agreed-upon course registration fee.)
Q: When will MMC be offering CD/DVD and/or interactive or online training?
A: While online presentations may seem effortless, good ones involve considerable time and expenses. Even seemingly simple things (podcasts, videos, etc.) require a major commitment in time and effort if they are to be done in a way that potential users will find useful rather than just a curiosity. We are very actively moving into the production of video (DVD) programs, vignettes, and courses to bring learning to you, your lodge/district, and your community. Watch our announcements for more.
Q: I've seen the book listings in the Library. Should I be reading all of these prior to attendance?
A: No. The topical book listings are provided merely to help those interested in the specific topic area both before and after their course attendance. When there is required preparatory reading, it will be noted in the course registration information.
Q: I volunteered to teach a course when you had your first online survey yet I never heard anything further. What's up?
A: The (then) Chair of our Faculty & Curriculum Committee sent an initial message contacting all of those who volunteered. We've heard back from a few of you but others have not responded. Just contact us and we'll get you involved!
Q: What should I bring to the course? What should I wear?
A: Bring an open and inquiring mind! Wear what you want (business casual appreciated - for men, this could be a polo shirt and slacks, for example.). You may also wish to bring your own pen/paper for note taking although we always have these available on site.
Q: I wasn't able to attend a course. When will it be repeated?
A: We try to repeat courses based on interest. If you weren't able to attend a particular course for whatever reason but really wanted to, drop us a note. Expressions of interest help us know when and where we should site our programs. Particularly when a course is limited in attendance and some had to be turned away, we will repeat that course again very soon thereafter.
Q: Can I visit the Maine Masonic College?
A: We have no physical facilities per se. The Regents hold their meetings in convenient Masonic venues. Our programs are offered at times and places which are convenient and available. We are NOT a 'bricks and mortar' facility but rather a 'concept'!
If you're from outside of Maine, ('from away' as we colloquially say), please read this section....
Q: Can I visit the Maine Masonic College?
A: We have no physical facilities per se. The Regents hold their meetings in convenient Masonic venues. Our programs are offered at times and places which are convenient and available. We are NOT a 'bricks and mortar' facility but rather a 'concept'!
Q: I live in Tennessee. Can I attend your programs?
A: It's a long drive, but --- Yes! We don't really care where you're from: all travel, however, is at your expense. If you're coming from a distance, please be sure to let us know so if any last-minute scheduling change occurs, we can notify you in a timely manner. The Maine Masonic College can not be held responsible for expenses you incur, even if a course is cancelled. Remember that in Maine, winter weather varies greatly from one part of the state to another.
Q: I'm a Mason from Ohio. Can I attend your courses?
A: When courses are limited to Master Masons only, we welcome attendance by those who hold membership in a lodge in amity with the Grand Lodge of Maine. Your current dues card or other proof of membership will be required either at the time of registration or attendance.
Incidentally, those within driving distance of our courses (the other New England states in particular) may wish to combine a visit to Maine with an MMC program. We're more than happy to offer travel and accommodation tips. Give our Webmaster a shout!
Q. I live in Albany, New York. When are you going to be offering courses in MY area?
A: We've been thrilled by the interest expressed by those outside of the Pine Tree State, particularly amongst Masons. Maine has historically been a leader in the Masonic world and the uniqueness of the Maine Masonic College reflects, yet again, this leadership. At this time, we have no plans to provide our courses outside of the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Maine. As you must realize, Masons from one jurisdiction simply do not start programs in other jurisdictions. Further, our focus is and must be on Maine.
It is important to note that although our program is - at present - quite unique, there is nothing whatsoever to prevent its replication in other jurisdictions. We'd welcome your attendance at any of our courses and we also encourage you to offer your assistance in the educational program(s) offered by your own jurisdiction.
Q: When will MMC be offering CD/DVD and/or interactive or online training?
A: While online presentations may seem effortless, good ones involve considerable time and expenses. Even seemingly simple things (podcasts, videos, etc.) require a major commitment of time and effort if they are to be done in a way that potential users will find useful rather than just a curiosity. We are exploring various venues and learning modalities of all types and, recognize the continuing growth of internet education opportunities. At this time, our major concern is addressing the needs in our own jurisdiction but we hope that soon we will have materials that all will find of interest. Stay tuned!
This page last updated on Sunday, November 30, 2008
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